This project was one that I was extremely nervous to try with junior high. This required them to get deep and self reflect, which is not typically on the agenda. In this project students had to create a contour drawing of themselves using their picture then fill it with words that describe them. They vary their text to show shading and significant lines or areas. In this project we learned about variation of line, grid drawing, and shading. The shading worked better for others, bot overall I was quite pleased with my students!

So let me start by saying my husband is an avid reader,and a Padres fan. He will read every sign, every blog, article, etc. So needless to say finding a blog about the Padres was a match made in heaven! This blog has a Padres jersey that travels from place to place similar to Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants where people write about their experiences. Well he signed up and it was our duty to take this jersey on a little vacation...So to SEDONA we went!!

We had our first stop in Black Canyon City to eat breakfast at a restaurant we have always wanted to try. This restaurant is stuck in a time period that is priceless. We witnessed locals make talk about their panning for gold in the backyard, and had the most delicious biscuits and gravy anyone could Imagine. Let me state for the record I normally don't eat sausage,or gravy for that matter, but I figured if the regulars are ordering it, I must try it! We enjoyed this restaurant so much that on our way home we stopped again just to pick up their fresh pie! PECAN PIE TO DIE FOR!!

Here is when we first got to Sedona, at the visitors center to get passes to park! It had an overcast which is not ideal for picture, but was perfect for hiking in the summer.

We tried a highly recommended trail called West Fork Trail. It ended up being 7-8 miles round trip but we ended up at this really pretty scenic creek, one of many creeks we crossed on that hike! (Notice the husband rocking the jersey for ample photo ops! ) Before we went home for the day we stopped at Oak Creek Brewing company where my husband got to try a flight, and we had a delicious lunch!

It was a perfect day which made us think why we can't do this more often?!!

So we had the first day of school August 7th. Yep, just like the kids, I had my first day of school pic taken by the Mr.! Here's to a happy school year with amazing lessons to share! I am implementing new lessons, new procedures, and new endeavors like STEAM teaching!!

Next, cut the pie crusts into fourths. Each packet should have two crusts, which makes 8 mini Beef pies. I guess if you wanted for an appetizer you could cut the crusts even smaller and not stuff them so much.

Seal edges with and egg wash, oil, or water, press with a fork to make sure it sealed.

Freeze on a pan first for 10 or so minutes, then you can bag and freeze together without sticking.

No need to defrost! Set temp at 400. Bake 15 minutes on each side. Try with a salad or something light as these are very filling! ENJOY!

Here is my Mythological Mask Project. Students choose a god, goddess or creature from a culture of their choosing or make one up based off a culture that has mythology. Then, they must incorporate aspects of that god, goddess or creature into their design. The order for this lesson goes as follows:

Notes on clay terms

Notes on Mythology

Sketches

Studio Days

Write a story that ties in your god, goddess, or creature

The next week or so are going to be busy ones. We start back August 7th with students so as you can imagine I will be busy! Please stay tuned as I will be updating about our day trip to Sedona, and Fletcher's birthday, along with the 18 Freezer meals I made last week!